British Life Research Articles

Exploring the Value and Affordances of Psychoanalysis in the Teaching of English Literary Texts in South African Secondary Education

Teachers and learners at South African secondary schools face a variety of challenges, of which some are psychological, emotional, and hidden from the untrained eye. It is, therefore, crucial to search for methods or theories to help learners with emotional and psychological challenges. The study explored and interrogated one overlooked theory that could help in this regard: the psychoanalytic theory. This Freudian theory is believed to offer a different kind of literary criticism which focuses on the subconscious mental activities and unusual behaviours in literary texts to resolve psychological challenges in education and society. The study investigated the nature, affordances, teaching methods, and challenges and solutions associated with the theory. The study also revealed some practical benefits of the theory for English literary education and life in general. Additionally, the study found that the theory is valuable in equipping teachers and learners with psychoanalytic knowledge and skills to critically analyse English literary content. The study also established that psychoanalytic abilities can help identify and resolve psychological challenges in an educational environment and society in general.

A Socioeconomic Approach to Studying Musical Instruments

ABSTRACT Considering musical instrument makers as socio-economic actors can inform narratives concerning not only the music business but also wider commercial activities. Makers use available materials, work alongside craftspeople in related trades, and operate in the same markets as suppliers of other cultural goods. Here we consider examples of organ builders (Ohrman & Nutt; Flight & Robson) and English guittar makers (Pinto; Clauss) to explore the musical, cultural, social and economic aspects of their commercial activities. These can be informatively positioned within the complex networks of British musical life in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

A semantic approach for the analysis of verbs in life sciences texts

ABSTRACT This paper presents a corpusbased study of a group of lexical verbs in eighteenth and nineteenth century scientific texts. The study has a twofold aim. Firstly, it aims to select four types of verb classes (verbs of communication, desire, aspectuals and perception) identified by Levin and Noonan and explore their use in the Corpus of English Life Sciences Texts, a subcorpus of the Coruña Corpus of English Scientific Writing. Secondly, it aims to determine if the frequency of these verbs varies based on the gender of the authors. Further, the study seeks to ascertain if a shifting pattern could be attested in the use of these verbs throughout the two centuries examined in the corpus, at a time when the scientific register was already becoming established. The findings of the study obtained from the greater or lesser occurrence of the verbs in question over the two centuries indicate which ones were more frequent in Life Sciences texts, whether they were more commonly used either by men or women and whether there was a pattern of continued usage of these verbs in Late Modern English scientific language rather than a shift towards nominalisation in this type of discourse.

Evelyn Waugh's Satirical Masterpieces: A Delightful Blend of Wit and Critique

This study explores the satirical masterpieces of Evelyn Waugh, a renowned British author, with a focus on their delightful blend of wit and critique. The aims of this research are to analyze Waugh's satirical techniques, examine the themes and subjects of his works, and evaluate their impact on literature and society. The methodology involves a comprehensive analysis of Waugh's major novels, including "Decline and fall," "Vile Bodies," and "A Handful of Dust," using close reading and critical analysis. The results reveal the remarkable ability of Waugh to use humor and irony to expose the absurdities and vices of his contemporary society. Through sharp characterizations, witty dialogue, and clever narrative structures, he satirizes various aspects of British upper-class life, modernism, religion, and the decline of traditional values. The discussion delves into the effectiveness of Waugh's satirical techniques, their relevance in today's context, and their enduring influence on subsequent writers. It also addresses the ethical considerations of satire, as well as the potential limitations of Waugh's perspective. Ultimately, this research concludes that Evelyn Waugh's satirical masterpieces offer readers a delightful blend of entertainment, thought provoking social commentary, and a lasting critique of human follies and societal constructs. His works continue to captivate audiences, inspiring laughter, introspection, and critical engagement with the complexities of the world.

Do textbooks reflect learners’ diversity? A case study of Grade 4 English and life skills textbooks

Textbooks socialise and legitimise cultural norms, and therefore, learners’ social worlds should find expression in their textbooks. In the study reported on here we examined how Grade 4 English First Additional Language and life skills textbooks reflected learner diversity in South African schools as manifested in their racial, gender, occupational, ability and geographical profiling in the textbooks. Content analysis was used to systematically identify instances of diversity representation in Grade 4 English First Additional Language and life skills textbooks. Quantitative content analysis accounted for the ubiquity of human characters’ reflection in textbooks on the diversity variables in question. Qualitative analysis focused on the depiction of characters’ gender roles. Quantitative data suggest that learners’ social worlds were generally represented in the selected textbooks. However, males enjoyed greater visibility than females, and the visibility of disabled people was low. The 2 life skills and 1 English textbook portrayed both urban and rural settings. The qualitative analysis uncovered some gender stereotyping, where, for example, women were depicted in lower positions compared to men’s high-paying vocations like judges, scientists, or doctors. Boys were depicted receiving prizes for their Matric achievements. Implications for publishers and writers commissioned to write textbooks include the need to consider representation of learner diversity in textbooks. The Department of Education should develop guidelines that promote such representation.

Selling the junta abroad: PR campaigns and UK–Greek relations during the Wilson government, 1967–69

ABSTRACT The propagandistic machine of the military dictatorship that ruled Greece between 1967 and 1974 has provided a focal point of scholarly inquiry in recent years. However, research has focused on the domestic front—the role of radio, television, and cinema—and has completely neglected the issue of public relations in the foreign policy arena. Nothing is known about how the dictatorship, which held an exceedingly weak reputational hand, strove to remake its image to the outside world. This article addresses this historiographical lacuna, exploring the Greek junta’s attempts to improve its international reputation by enlisting the services of foreign public relations (PR) firms. By demonstrating the interplay of nation branding and foreign policy in this way, this article highlights the underappreciated role of transnational non-governmental actors such as PR firms in the ‘nation branding’ of authoritarian regimes. In the process, it reveals how the lobbying activities of a London-based PR firm enlisted by the junta vitiated UK–Greek relations during Harold Wilson’s Labour government, and culminated in an important, and underexplored, flashpoint in political discourse concerning the outside interests of parliamentarians and standards of integrity in British public life.

Representation of british social and political life in audiovisual content

Representation of british social and political life in audiovisual content

Intersections of Identity: Race, Legacy, and Belonging, within Caryl Phillips’s Historical Narrative “Dr Johnson’s Watch” as Part of Three English Lives

This essay examines Caryl Phillips’s portrayal of the historical figure Francis Barber. This formerly enslaved person rose to become the companion and heir of Samuel Johnson, the renowned lexicographer and writer. Phillips’s narrative, ‘Dr. Johnson's Watch,’ encapsulates two pivotal episodes from Barber’s life: his poignant attendance at Johnson's funeral in Westminster Abbey and his encounter with an unnamed narrator years later in Lichfield. Through these episodes, Phillips delves into profound themes of race, identity, belonging, and legacy against the backdrop of eighteenth-century England, a society entrenched in slavery and colonialism. The essay offers a nuanced literary analysis of the complex relationship between Johnson and Barber, both of whom existed as outsiders within their own contexts. It prompts reflection on the representation and agency of black individuals in history and literature, grappling with the challenges and opportunities they confronted in a largely hostile and indifferent society. At its thematic core lies Johnson’s watch, symbolising the enduring connections between individuals of diverse backgrounds and underscoring the legacy of figures like Johnson in advocating against the injustices of slavery. Through Phillips's narrative, the essay elucidates the intricate dynamics of race, power, and belonging in English society, shedding light on the struggles faced by immigrants and marginalized individuals during this tumultuous period. Ultimately, ‘Dr. Johnson’s Watch’ serves as a powerful testament to the humanity and dignity of Barber and other foreigners, inviting readers to contemplate the enduring impact of historical figures in advocating for justice and equality.

Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning Untuk Meningkatkan Minat Belajar Siswa Pada Mata Pelajaran Bahasa Inggris di SMP Islam Al Amin Cikarang Utara Kabupaten Bekasi

This research was conducted as a response to students' low interest in learning in English subjects at Al Amin Islamic Middle School, North Cikarang, Bekasi Regency. Several factors that cause this low interest include the lack of attractiveness of the material, monotonous teaching methods, and the lack of connection between English language material and students' daily lives. The impact is a decrease in students' interest in these subjects, which can affect their interest in learning. In an effort to increase students' interest in learning, the Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning model is used, where the teacher gives students ample opportunities to determine problem topics that are relevant to the learning material, even though the teacher has prepared the material that will be discussed in the lesson. The learning process is focused on students' abilities to solve problems systematically and logistically. This research uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Through observation, interviews and documentation, the research results show that the application of the PBL learning model at Al Amin Islamic Middle School, North Cikarang, Bekasi Regency can increase students' interest in learning. English teachers who use the PBL model get good responses from students, where students are active in the teaching and learning process, ask questions actively, and are able to answer questions well and appropriately during discussions. The PBL learning model also encourages students to be more diligent in doing their assignments and provides high motivation to learn. Students find it easier to solve problems and are able to apply the knowledge they have.

Frustration and Aggression in John Osborne’s “Look Back in Anger”

"ننظر إلى الوراء في غضب" هي مسرحية ظهرت في مرحلة انتقالية حاسمة من الماضي في بريطانيا الفيكتوري في القرن العشرين الحديث. الغضب جيمي والغضب هو تعبيره عن المشاعر المكبوتة وحاجته للحياة في عالم اصبح فاتر ورتيبا. وأصبح هذا الغضب رمزا للتمرد ضد التوعك السياسي والاجتماعي للثقافة البريطانية. غضبه مدمر لمن حوله والعنف النفسي للمسرحية تلقى قدرا كبيرا من الانتقادات. النقاد يتفقون اليوم، مع ذلك، أن المسرحية أمر أساسي لفهم الحياة البريطانية في القرن العشرين، وبالتالي، وعمل مهم في الأدب البريطاني الحديث.

The power of protest in the media: examining portrayals of climate activism in UK news

Over the last several years, the United Kingdom has seen a wave of environmental movements demanding action on the climate crisis. While aligned in their goals, the groups undertaking this activism often diverge on the question of tactics. One such divergence occurred in January 2023, when Extinction Rebellion (XR) declared “We Quit”, ending actions that were disruptive to the general public. Peer groups Just Stop Oil and Animal Rising continued disruptive actions, viewing them as the best way to gain media coverage for their causes. Despite the urgency of addressing climate change and the growing prominence of direct action in British life, little research has examined how the news media covers and reacts to different climate actions. News media plays a vital role in influencing the public’s perception of the climate crisis and “appropriate” responses. We assembled a unique dataset of British news coverage of climate actions over a 7 month period, covering both before and after XR’s “We Quit” statement. Our results reveal that conservative publications cover climate actions more unfavorably and more inaccurately than other publications. Legal actions are generally covered more favorably than illegal ones in both conservative and non-conservative outlets and receive more coverage. Actions that target industry attract more coverage than those that target other actors, while actions that target the public are covered more favorably than those that do not. These results contribute to the scholarly debates surrounding the interaction between social movements and news media, especially on how different strategies potentially influence the extent and affective nature of coverage. They have implications for strategies adopted by climate advocates, depending on whether their goal is merely to draw attention to an issue or if it is to generate positive coverage.

A Thorough Analysis of the Enchanting Realism: George Eliot's Captivating Portrayal of Victorian Rural English Life in Adam Bede

This comprehensive examination examines George Eliot's novel "Adam Bede" in the context of realism in Victorian English literature. The essay explores the origins of realism as a response to Romanticism, highlighting its focus on portraying life in a genuine manner, devoid of fanciful features. Critics frequently emphasize the Victorian era as a significant time in literature due to its varied novelists, who each played a role in shaping the changing notion of reality. The story of "Adam Bede" is analyzed as an exemplary illustration of realism, stemming from Eliot's commitment to depicting common characters and mundane events with clarity. The essay highlights Eliot's distinctive methodology in developing characters, placing a greater emphasis on reality rather than a complex storyline. The characters, such as Adam Bede, Dinah Morris, Hetty Sorrel, and Arthur Donnithorne, are thoroughly examined to highlight their authentic qualities, imperfections, and development throughout the story. The study incorporates thematic themes, including the depiction of both internal and external beauty, industrious work, and ethical conduct, all of which contribute to the novel's realism. The essay argues that "Adam Bede" adeptly portrays the social reality of Victorian society by exploring themes of social class and moral quandaries. The conclusion underscores the novel's importance as a piece of realism in Victorian English literature, matching with the wider cultural background of that age.

The Case for a Strong BBC. Cultural Sovereignty and Public Service Broadcasting in the Netflix Era

AbstractPSBs across the world are facing financial, technological and political pressures, yet audiences still need and want the benefits of public service media. If they are to survive, PSBs need to produce an agile response to the changing patterns of media consumption and the claims that markets can provide. Whilst the big streamers have produced great global content, they are unable to cover the range of the PSBs in reflecting the diversity and variety of British life and culture, nor take the same risks in nurturing new talent across the sector. Politicians must use the forthcoming BBC Charter renewal in 2027 to address the revolution in audience behaviour and changes in technology to reshape the choices available to the British public and beyond. The creative industries are a powerhouse of talent and contribute to some of our best prospects for global reach and economic growth. We must ensure they have a healthy future.

The Significance of Victorian England for the Cottagecore Aesthetic

This article contemplates the idyllic imagery of Elizabeth Gaskell's rural texts in relation to the key visual motifs of the Internet aesthetic "cottagecore." Meanwhile, the paper also strives to highlight the importance of both the Victorian era, particularly its literature and art, with regard to this popular Internet aesthetic. With some brief references to influential figures of the age, the cultural timeframe surrounding Gaskell's rural fiction is shown to offer significant historical relevance to the romanticisation of the English country-cottage life. The literary and pictorial texts serve as examples of this cultural process. Considering the author's mostly ornamental use of cottages in Wives and Daughters as well as her employment of floral characterisation, the paper also highlights the visual aesthetics of the cottage art of Helen Allingham and Myles Birket Foster as well as rural depictions made by illustrators of Gaskell's provincial works that display the visual after-life of Gaskell's rural texts.

Service-Learning in an Increasingly Global Context

Service-learning (SL), or community-engaged learning, refers to a project-based pedagogical approach that addresses community needs through coursework tied to academic, social/civic and personally impactful learning objectives. Originally emerging from research and practice in U.S. higher education, its inclusion in K-12 education in the US and international contexts has gained traction in recent years. Nevertheless, reports of implementation and effectiveness in international education are lacking. This article presents the impact of a two-week US Department of State-funded service-learning exchange program for 25 EFL teachers from 24 countries spanning the globe. Through academic sessions, site visits, and cultural activities led by an interdisciplinary team at a major Midwestern research university, participants were equipped to use SL in contextually appropriate ways for the teaching of both English and vital 21st century life skills. The authors begin with an overview of SL and a research-based account of its benefits for holistic learning, and especially for its application in English education. Following a description of the exchange program that highlights key aspects of the curriculum, the piece turns to participant reflections on selected aspects of SL in English language education. Finally, the authors suggest implications for the future of SL in a global context.

The relationship between the development of football and match security technologies from the beginning to the end of the 1980’s

Aim: Football is the ‘king’ of the most popular spectator sports. Its popularity has been unbroken since the inception of the sport. Its development has been accompanied by the aspiration of safety. The aims of the examination of the development from a safety technical point of view to show a comprehensive result of the measures and interventions implemented during the process spanning centuries.Methodology: The Authors used both empirical and logical methods in the present research. They take a qualitative approach to the historical development of the safety and security of football matches, looking for correlations between the way in which they are implemented and the means available, through study and content analysis, with a particular focus on contemporary English football.Findings: The safety of the ancient human’s sport is fundamentally different from the sport of XIX and XX centuries, both in terms of the measures and the tools used too. Following the development of football in its current form, after the temporary period of the 1930’s–1950’s, from the end of the 1960’s, the circumstances of English football life became dominant all over the world. After the world wars football was mainly managed on the basis of political and economic principles. Soccer matches, which attract large crowds from different layer of society, became the subject of the passion of spectators with the same interests, supporting a same club, it was the foundation of football hooliganism was formed and reached its summit in the 1980’s.Value: This symptom of fanatics has caused a huge unsolved problem for several participant of society and made it necessary to coordinate the means and measures of securing football matches.

Memorial as aegis: Colonial sovereignty and the unmaking of the Kanpur Memorial Well Monument

This article addresses competing visions of sovereignty that underwrite recent debates about monuments. It turns to a well-known monument built to commemorate the loss of British lives in the Sepoy Rebellion of 1857–59: the Kanpur (Cawnpore) Memorial Well Monument. The memorial stood over a well in which the bodies of 200 British women and children killed by Indian sepoys lay buried. A large landscaped enclosure was built around the memorial and only European visitors were given access to the site. On August 15, 1947, the day of Indian independence from British rule, a crowd overran the site and defaced the monument. Much of the monument was subsequently dismantled and moved to a more secluded site within the Kanpur cantonment. The desire among the British stakeholders to leave no trace of its former identity focused attention on those aspects of meaning ascribed to the monument that could not be erased. Building on the Hobbesian idea of passion as a key element of sovereignty, this article argues that the monument may be viewed as an aegis — an apotropaion — that deflects gaze more than it enables attentive looking.

Oxford mathematics at a low ebb? An 1855 dispute over examination results

ABSTRACT Between December 1855 and March 1856, a public dispute raged, in British national newspapers and locally published pamphlets, between two teachers at the University of Oxford: the mathematical lecturer Francis Ashpitel and Bartholomew Price, the professor of natural philosophy. The starting point for these exchanges was the particularly poor results that had come out of the final mathematics examinations in Oxford that December. Ashpitel, as one of the examiners, stood accused of setting questions that were too difficult for the ordinary student, with the consequence that, in Price’s view, further mathematical study in Oxford – never as robust as in Cambridge – would be discouraged. We examine this short-lived affair, and use it not only to gain insight into the status of mathematical study in Oxford in the mid-nineteenth century, but also to point towards the increasing importance of competitive examinations in British public life at that time.

History in the pub: The historiography of J.D. Wetherspoon

J. D. Wetherspoon is a popular pub chain in the United Kingdom. Despite its prominence in British cultural life and active and deliberate engagement with history, it has received scant academic attention. Here, this engagement with history is explored with a particular focus on how Wetherspoon approaches the history of science. This paper highlights the focus of Wetherspoon on local history and, in particular, on local exceptionalism, before discussing how such an understanding of history informs wider debates—such as Wetherspoon’s support of Brexit (the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union). It contributes to understandings of what constitutes popular history and, through doing so, emphasises the need for historians to engage with historical narratives outside the academy.

THE PROBLEMS OF NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE AND THEIR ROLE IN TODAY’S POLITICAL AGENDA IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

The article focuses on the National Health Service and its role in British social and political life. The author highlights the symbolic meaning of NHS for several generations of UK citizens and political leaders, which determines its primacy for all political parties. The article looks at the impact of current NHS crisis on the voters’ attitudes to the governing Conservative party and the Government measures aimed at tackling the crisis. The major parties’ statements in the run-up to future General Elections are analyzed. The author notes that the population’s special attitude to the National Health Service across the UK makes the parties cautious and deters them from ambitious statements, so they restrict themselves to specific promises on a narrow scope of issues.